Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef has backed attacking midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala for selection in Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
Shabalala recently reached a major milestone, making his 100th appearance for the club during Chiefs’ 1–0 victory over Zesco United in the CAF Confederation Cup on Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The 22-year-old began the match on the bench before being introduced in the second half, replacing Mfundo Vilakazi as Chiefs looked to control the tempo of the game.
Last month, Shabalala was named among three standby players for Bafana during their Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco.
Ben Youssef praised Shabalala for reaching the 100-appearance mark, describing him as one of the most professional players in the squad and someone who listens to coaches’ instructions.
The Chiefs co-coach added that he hopes Shabalala’s performances will earn him a place in the Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June.
“Shabalala is one of the best players, I think he’s performing very well,” said Ben Youssef.
“The best thing with Shabalala, he’s very smart, professional. Every advice you give to Shabalala, he’s always ready.
“He’s a professional player and I hope that he will continue and also be part of the Bafana Bafana squad in the World Cup.”
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